I’m an animator. I want to do TV commercials. Who should I contact?
October 29th, 2009
laughingcrows asked:
Hi all. I’m capable of creating and animating 2D or 3D characters which would be perfect for thrity second TV spots. But, I don’t know the ad agency world and I’m no marketer, so I’m not sure how to get started.
Hi all. I’m capable of creating and animating 2D or 3D characters which would be perfect for thrity second TV spots. But, I don’t know the ad agency world and I’m no marketer, so I’m not sure how to get started.
It seems local video production companies feel like I would be taking money out of their pockets, so they are reluctant to partner or contract with me.
I’ve contacted a local TV station, but they feel that their customers are only willing to pay the bare minimum for their ads. So what’s an animator to do? I just want to help make some great TV ads.
Am I any good? One of my first animated shorts was featured on the Independent Film Channel and a second short won a trip to L.A. to tour Sony Pictures and attend a live TV show. So I’m new at this, but off to a great start.
Thanks to all who answer.
(check my profile for a link to my demo reel)
October 31st, 2009 at 9:41 am
well then search the net for some contacts then ask them if they have some vacant for that field…
November 3rd, 2009 at 2:34 pm
i recommend that you search for a job in a creative boutique which directly links itself to an ad agency that is hired by different organizations for the production of media worthy ads.
look up creative boutiques in your area or surrounding areas online and maybe you’ll find one. creative boutiques are heavily affiliated by ad agencies, and many are actually owned by them.
creative boutiques have copywriters, animators, graphic designers, … generally, a whole group of creative and vision oriented personnel who work on the idea generation, analyzation, and production of creative advertising.
good luck man!
November 5th, 2009 at 5:25 am
you probably don’t want to hear this, but you’re not alone.
… but, that doesn’t mean you can’t make it.
most ad agencies rely on reels to determine who they may select for a commercial. these demo reels are typically represented by commercial production companies. these companies typically have a stable of directors/animators that work exclusively for them. when an ad agency wants to do a commercial with animation, the agency producer calls the production company for reels.
so basically you need representation. animators also typically work as illustrators too. and they have reps too.
depending on what market you’re in, you should check out the Advertising Red Book to track down producers in the agencies in your area. (usually available in “reference” section of your library) send them a cover letter with a reel or a link to your web site.
you might also write to pharmaceutical ad agencies and send them samples as well. they often do commercials with animated characters.
you should also enter your shorts into film festivals such as Aspen Shortsfest to gain more exposure. (agents go to these festivals to find new clients.)
I’d highly recommend finding a pro-bono client (non-profit) and doing a 30 second spot for them for free. The good thing about doing pro-bono spots is TV stations will run them for free as part of their community obligation (but usually in the wee hours). Nevertheless, you can then enter them in advertising award shows.
anyway, hope this helps.
LA411.com will give you a great list of production companies. they can give you great advice on what your next steps should be.
good luck
November 8th, 2009 at 5:07 pm
Reputed Advertising Company, having LARGE Accounts.